Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 April 2013
617. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the measures being taken to increase the capacity and potential of persons with disabilities to participate in the labour market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18716/13]
View answerVocational training, including training for people with intellectual, phyiscal or sensory disabilities and mental health issues which prepares people for employment in the open labour market, is the responsibility of the Department of Eduction and Skills and SOLAS (formerly FÁS).
The Department of Social Protection is responsible for delivering income supports, activation and employment services and advice to all unemployed citizens, including people with disabilities, to increase their prospects of securing employment. The Supported Employment Programme / EmployAbility Service is an open labour market initiative providing supports to people with disabilities to help them access the open labour market. It is implemented by sponsor organisations on behalf of the Department of Social Protection who employ Job Coaches to provide a range of supports tailored to the individual needs of a jobseeker. The ultimate outcome is that the employee becomes independent of Job Coach support.
Rehabilitative training, which has no connection with the open labour market, is the responsibility of the Department of Health and the Health Service Executive (HSE). The purpose of rehabilitative training is to develop the individual’s life skills, social skills and basic work skills. Approximately 3,000 people avail of rehabilitative training each year, some of whom then progress to vocational training, other training or employment.
